Since 2017, the bio Card, a pioneering partnership between the Foundation for the Conservation of Biodiversity (BIOFUND) and Commercial Investment Bank (BCI), has been driving significant impacts in financing biodiversity conservation initiatives and sustainable development in Mozambique. With over 37,000 cards issued and more than MZN 22 million raised, the initiative proves that small contributions can generate big change.
Published at 17/12/2024
Bio Card: A Catalyst for Continuous Transformation in Biodiversity Conservation in Mozambique
Among the supported projects are the protection of rhinos in Sábiè Game Park, which uses satellite monitoring to safeguard threatened species, and the restoration of the Bobole Botanical Reserve, where the repopulation of Raphia australis has been combined with agroforestry systems that provide direct community benefits, such as increased household income through agroforestry businesses and sustainable forest harvesting. Additionally, Eduardo Mondlane University Botanical Garden implemented a project to preserve rare and endangered species such as Warburgia salutaris, fostering the training of new conservationists and ensuring the continuity of conservation efforts.
In the marine realm, turtle monitoring in the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago Environmental Protection Area has enabled crucial studies of migration routes, helping to protect this emblematic species.
More recently, the bio Card expanded its impact to address urgent challenges, such as mitigating human-elephant conflicts in Maputo, through the installation of electric fences and monitoring collars.
In Sofala, the project “Access to the National Charcoal Market” promotes the sustainable management of forest biomass to create jobs and reduce environmental risks.
During the celebration of the bio Card’s sixth anniversary, held at the BCI auditorium, BIOFUND reiterated its commitment to expanding the initiative’s positive results while encouraging more national partnerships. This model connects businesses and society to biodiversity conservation, promoting a more sustainable future for Mozambique.